Things to Do

Karuizawa's sights work best as a slow circuit: water, trees, old resort architecture, and a few places that explain how this mountain town became fashionable.

Guide

Things to Do

01

Mount Asama

Mount Asama is an active volcano northwest of Karuizawa and one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. Its smoking summit is a landmark of the …
02

Kumoba Pond

Kumoba Pond is Karuizawa's classic easy walk, a small, clear pond ringed by larch and maple trees. It is especially good in autumn, when …

Sight
03

Shiraito Falls

Shiraito Falls is only about three metres high, but it spreads across a broad rock wall in hundreds of fine streams. The name means …

Sight
04

Former Mikasa Hotel

The Former Mikasa Hotel is a handsome wooden Western-style hotel from the Meiji period, built by Japanese craftsmen and later designated an Important Cultural …

Architecture
05

Shaw Memorial Church

This modest timber chapel marks Karuizawa's missionary past. It is linked to Alexander Croft Shaw, the Canadian-born Anglican missionary who helped turn the cool …

Sight
06

Karuizawa Sengataki Onsen

Karuizawa Sengataki Onsen is a public hot-spring bath in the woods of Naka-Karuizawa. The appeal is simple: mineral water, a quiet garden setting, and …
07

Asama Volcano Museum

Asama Volcano Museum explains the geology and eruptions of Mount Asama, one of central Honshu's most active volcanoes. It is especially useful for families …

Museum
08

Old Karuizawa Main Street

Old Karuizawa Main Street is the resort town's classic strolling street, lined with cafes, souvenir shops, small boutiques, and seasonal stores. It is at …

Sight